West Virginia screens newborns through the Department of Health’s Office of Laboratory Services, covering most of the federal RUSP core plus recently added lysosomal disorders.
West Virginia newborn screening at a glance
- Conditions screened: about 40, plus newborn hearing and critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) screening
- Program: West Virginia DHHR / Office of Laboratory Services
- Compared to the federal RUSP: screens most of the RUSP core
- Official source: West Virginia newborn screening program
What the West Virginia panel covers
The panel includes PKU and other metabolic disorders, endocrine and hemoglobin conditions such as sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), plus Fabry disease and MPS II.
West Virginia added lysosomal storage disorders following a 2023 directive and expects to add MLD around 2027; an older 29-conditions figure still appears on some state pages.
Why the West Virginia panel stops where it does
The size of West Virginia’s panel is not a limit of technology. Every condition on a state panel has to clear evidence review, secure ongoing funding, and be formally adopted, which is why recent additions took years of work. Many treatable, childhood-onset conditions that today’s sequencing can already detect simply have not moved through that public-health pipeline yet.
How Fore extends newborn screening
Fore Genomics offers an at-home genetic screen that uses a simple cheek swab to look at the genes tied to more than 1,000 clinically actionable, childhood-onset conditions — well beyond any state panel. Samples are sequenced in CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited labs, and results are delivered with support from board-certified genetic counselors. It does not replace the West Virginia state screen; it extends it, using technology available today rather than waiting for the public program to expand. Compare all 50 states, read what newborn screening tests for, or start screening.
Frequently asked questions
How many conditions does West Virginia screen for?
West Virginia screens for about 40 through its bloodspot panel and point-of-care checks. Counts are approximate and change as the state updates its panel, so confirm current details with the West Virginia program.
Is newborn screening required in West Virginia?
Newborn screening is standard for every baby born in West Virginia. Rules on declining vary, so check current guidance from the West Virginia newborn screening program.
How do I get my baby’s West Virginia results?
Results are sent to your baby’s healthcare provider. Ask your pediatrician, or contact the West Virginia newborn screening program for a copy.
Medically reviewed by Fore’s Clinical Team. This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice. State screening panels change; confirm current details with the West Virginia DHHR / Office of Laboratory Services (as of 2026). Sources: West Virginia newborn screening program; HRSA Recommended Uniform Screening Panel.